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  3. Midi Controller Recommencations

  • Midi Controller Recommencations

    J
    J

    Hello,


    With the release of the Steinway I came to the conclusion that I must experience this with a high-quality midi-keyboard and has therefore decided to grab a DOEPFER PK88. I’ve previously been using a M-Audio Oxygen 88 but am not loving the key action on it. It’s way to sluggish action to feel anything like a real keyboard.
    However, I do use some of the Midi controllers on it, such as the mod-wheel, and sliders for controlling my VXF, EXP, S-XF etc. and the DOEPFER PK88 is simply just keys. Do anyone have any recommendation on a good Midi controller that can be used to easy manage all the VSL controllers?

    Best Regards
  • Fabio BiolcatiF
    Fabio BiolcatiF

    Both Grand and Studio versions of Studiologic SL88 are very good, though I prefer wheels instead of joysticks as controllers (these machines has three of them!).
    Hope it helps.

    VI Special Edition 1-3, Reaper, MuseScore 3, Notion 3 (collecting dust), vst flotsam and jetsam
  • J
    J
    last edited
    last edited

    Thanks for the tip. Good to know that SL88 seem like a very capable keyboard with great action. However, I was looking for a stand-alone Midi Controller that can be used togeather with a DOEPFER PK88 keyboard since it does not have any buttons or sliders.

    However, I came across this little thing; Expressive E Touché. What if you could map the VXF with a simple hand gesture and the EXP with actual pressure of the hand? and Slot-XF to control the vibrato with an actual vibrato gesture? I must try it! I'll let you know how it works if anyone is interested 😊
  • Fabio BiolcatiF
    Fabio BiolcatiF

    Sorry for misunderstanding.
    Have a look to Korg NanoControl series —seen also in VSL videos.
    Expressive E Touché is also an interesting tool.
    Best

    VI Special Edition 1-3, Reaper, MuseScore 3, Notion 3 (collecting dust), vst flotsam and jetsam
  • holywillyH
    holywillyH
    Maybe check out Arturia’s Keylab 88
  • nilbloN
    nilbloN

    Hi ! Did you ever try the Expressive E Touché ?

    /Nils
  • J
    J

    Yes. It did not work very well I am afraid. Although it was a while ago I remember that it was not (at all) as touch sensitive as I imagned. It's all about pressure which made it very hard to be precise, or maintain a stable level/curve. It is simply not designed for details but more "Expressive" finger drumming to trigger digital sounds. I also remember that it was only good for sounds, or plugins that it were designed for, not for others.

    Hornberg HB1 + faders (Fadermaster or Icon Platform X+) is the way to go IMO.
  • K
    K

    I use a StudioLogic Mixface and love it.  Very easy to configure, is a good size, and all of the sliders, knobs and buttons are really high quality.  Plenty of controls, simple bank switching if you need it and smooth response all around.  https://www.studiologic-music.com/products/mixface/